Translation guide
The English word "condition" covers several distinct meanings. This guide breaks them down into practical categories for Japanese learners.
Describing the current state, situation, or circumstances of something or someone.
General term for the state or condition of something. Works for objects, systems, health, etc.
The road conditions are bad.
His health condition is good.
Often used for physical condition, health, or how something is functioning. More casual than 状態.
I'm not feeling well today. (lit. My body's condition is bad.)
The air conditioner is acting up. (lit. The condition of the AC is strange.)
Refers to the situation or circumstances, often broader than 状態. Used for contexts like weather, traffic, or social situations.
Please check the traffic conditions.
Used for condition in terms of performance, mood, or how something is running. Common for machines, body, or rhythm.
I've been in good shape lately.
The car isn't running well.
Something that must be fulfilled or agreed upon, often in contracts, rules, or agreements.
Referring to a health problem, disease, or disorder.
General word for illness or disease. Often used when "condition" means a medical issue.
He has a heart condition.
Refers to symptoms or a specific medical condition. Often used in clinical contexts.
A chronic condition or pre-existing illness.
Referring to being in good or bad physical shape, often related to exercise.
Physical condition, often used in the context of health and fitness.
I exercise to stay in good condition.
Loanword from English, often used in sports or fitness contexts.
I'm in good condition today.
As a verb, "to condition" means to train, influence, or determine behavior.
状態 (じょうたい) is the most general for state/condition of things. 状況 (じょうきょう) is for broader situations or circumstances. 具合 (ぐあい) is often used for personal physical condition or how something is functioning, and is more casual.
While コンディション is common in sports and fitness, using it for general states or medical conditions can sound unnatural. Stick to native Japanese words like 状態 or 体調 unless you're specifically talking about athletic performance.
The car is in excellent condition.
Under what conditions will you accept?
He has a rare skin condition.
What are the conditions for passing?
その症状はストレスが原因かもしれない。
That condition might be caused by stress.
I have a chronic condition, so I visit the hospital regularly.
Condition the dog to the new house.